Oy, I've had the crappiest week. I mean, I know that I can say it's been a bad week, but this week has been bad. I almost quit my job and the social work program this week. It would have been a good week to get out there and run and not let myself stew and get more upset.
But I didn't! On Tuesday night, I planned for an early run that didn't work out and when I got home from work/internship, Surbhi called, so I poured a glass of wine and sat down to talk to one of my dearest friends after about two months of not doing so. It was a much better choice because we really needed to catch up. Who needs to run?
Anyhoo, during our talk, we caught each other up on our running progress. Well, really our non-running progress. Neither of us have run in about three weeks (though she has hit much higher milestones during her training!) and seem to have no time to do so right now. Well, we have time to run, but not increase mileage. It's hard to devote hours on end to run. So, we don't know what that means for the marathon, but we'll decide sooner or later (or, that morning when we decide to go to brunch instead).
While we were on the phone, I brought up walking and how I though that maybe I would like to start walking my miles instead of running them. I'm not sure about that, but I have walked four miles in the last two days. It's been great! My calves don't hurt and my right knee has been much nicer to me when I have to take the stairs. Even funnier, my pace is like 2 minutes faster than it was when I ran. I wonder if I sauntered too much during the walking portions of the runs.
I can't decide if I want to just focus on getting healthy right now rather than walking a marathon. I think I want to work on exercising daily and eating right for now and then seeing where that goes.
I think I'm going to have to change the title of my blog! Or merge it with my other one. Who knows?!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Shimmy Shakes
Today I started thinking about taking up belly dancing. I did it for a summer when I was in Houston for an internship (I miss you, Steph!) and I LOVED it. I had the intention of getting into when I went back home to Lubbock, but I couldn't afford the classes. Now I can afford it and I'm starting to think it would be freaking great.
I am struggling with my running right now and I think that's why I'm thinking of "cheating" on it. Swimming is another idea that I'm flirting with--I know it's good for you and non-impact, which would be bliss for my crampy calves. I wonder if I would get bored with belly dancing. Would shimmying around ever get boring? I can't imagine it! I think it would be a blast. Plus, I feel sexy doing it. I look sexy doing it. Kalem thinks it's sexy, too. Hmm.
Anyhoo, so I will be looking into classes a little further. So far, the cheapest I've found are $15 classes. I don't know if I want to afford that much a month. I am still thinking on it.
For now, though, I keep remembering how great it made me feel, so in love with my curves. It might be really great for me!
I am struggling with my running right now and I think that's why I'm thinking of "cheating" on it. Swimming is another idea that I'm flirting with--I know it's good for you and non-impact, which would be bliss for my crampy calves. I wonder if I would get bored with belly dancing. Would shimmying around ever get boring? I can't imagine it! I think it would be a blast. Plus, I feel sexy doing it. I look sexy doing it. Kalem thinks it's sexy, too. Hmm.
Anyhoo, so I will be looking into classes a little further. So far, the cheapest I've found are $15 classes. I don't know if I want to afford that much a month. I am still thinking on it.
For now, though, I keep remembering how great it made me feel, so in love with my curves. It might be really great for me!
Dedication
So. When I first started running, I loved it. I lived for it (in addition to other things, of course). I would wake up in the morning and the first thing I would think was "it looks like a gorgeous day to run" or "it's not a good day to run outside". And, I would still run anyway. Lately, since I got hurt, really, I haven't had the "running mojo". If I get out there and run, I'm usually cranky about it. But, once the run is over, I'm glad I did it. I want that feeling again, where I couldn't wait to get out there and run. I loved that feeling! I miss it.
I am still running, but at larger intervals of time and not nearly as pleasant about it. I feel great after it's done. I just want to feel great about it before I leave. I have almost called this a failed attempt at a hobby at least 30 times in the last three weeks. But, I'm still forcing myself out there every once in a while. A few nights ago, Mom and I were on the phone and she said something to the effect of "well, you've been running a lot for a while now, so I'm sure you have gotten so much healthier". Ahem. I'm not sure when I will see my parents next, but after the phone call I told Kalem, "I really have to get in shape because my parents already believe I am doing so". Is that the motivation I should use?
Or it could be Surbhi. She is super intense about it and really dedicated. I told her I was thinking of backing out of the marathon and she said even if I walked the whole dang thing I was doing it with her. I feel bullied, but she's right. I committed to her and was so gung-ho that I made her promise to run it with me. That would suck for me to leave her by herself. So, I'll be there to run it with her, even if I am 5 miles behind her.
It could be myself. It SHOULD be myself. I have never followed through on any health thing ever. I need to keep myself focused on myself. Not myself as the individual parts--the more I think about how much my calves hurt, the less I am willing to get back out there again. I have to focus on myself as a person and the goals and dreams I had for myself.
This is a pointless blog, but it was a good pep talk for the run I have scheduled after work. Wish me luck! And dedication!
I am still running, but at larger intervals of time and not nearly as pleasant about it. I feel great after it's done. I just want to feel great about it before I leave. I have almost called this a failed attempt at a hobby at least 30 times in the last three weeks. But, I'm still forcing myself out there every once in a while. A few nights ago, Mom and I were on the phone and she said something to the effect of "well, you've been running a lot for a while now, so I'm sure you have gotten so much healthier". Ahem. I'm not sure when I will see my parents next, but after the phone call I told Kalem, "I really have to get in shape because my parents already believe I am doing so". Is that the motivation I should use?
Or it could be Surbhi. She is super intense about it and really dedicated. I told her I was thinking of backing out of the marathon and she said even if I walked the whole dang thing I was doing it with her. I feel bullied, but she's right. I committed to her and was so gung-ho that I made her promise to run it with me. That would suck for me to leave her by herself. So, I'll be there to run it with her, even if I am 5 miles behind her.
It could be myself. It SHOULD be myself. I have never followed through on any health thing ever. I need to keep myself focused on myself. Not myself as the individual parts--the more I think about how much my calves hurt, the less I am willing to get back out there again. I have to focus on myself as a person and the goals and dreams I had for myself.
This is a pointless blog, but it was a good pep talk for the run I have scheduled after work. Wish me luck! And dedication!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
New Shoes!
Oh happy day! I bought some new running shoes! It was time--my shoes were something like 5 years old and running in them was agony. They are Asics Gel-Nimbus:
http://www.asicsamerica.com/products/product.aspx?PRODUCT_ID=240009425&TITLE_CATEGORY_ID=250001543
I think these may be the coolest shoes I've ever owned. I love them.
I went for a run in them on Sunday and it wasn't too comfortable, but that's okay--the first runs are not always great when the shoes are being broken in. Even though it wasn't the best run, it was pretty great, because they were so soft and supportive. I'm pumped.
On other health notes, I'm tired of being a bad eater. I can't say that I was healthy when I started college, but I was a better eater. Fast forward 6 years (and 80 pounds!) and I'm a terrible eater. Well, I'm not as bad as I was before I started running, but I could be better. So, I'm going to try to focus on my eating, too. I am going to avoid fast food (because it really is the devil--a calorie-laden, fatty devil) and listening to my body in regard to why and what I'm eating. So, yeah! Hope it goes well!
The first thing that I'm trying to do is cut back on caffeine. I can't do it all at once and this is the right time to stop drinking coffee--it's not cold so I won't be missing out on its warming effect. I was doing pretty well for a while--I took three weeks off, but two weeks ago, I started drinking it again. On Sunday night I couldn't get to sleep until 3:15 AM. I don't know if that's because of the cup of coffee I had that morning, but it really made me recommit to not drinking it anymore (after drinking it yesterday to make it through the day on 3.5 hours of sleep!). After I get this down, I think fast food will be my next project. I think it will be hard because on the weekends when we're doing errands, it's easy to pick something up, especially if Kalem plans to get something himself. So, it's an ongoing process, but I'm excited about it!
http://www.asicsamerica.com/products/product.aspx?PRODUCT_ID=240009425&TITLE_CATEGORY_ID=250001543
I think these may be the coolest shoes I've ever owned. I love them.
I went for a run in them on Sunday and it wasn't too comfortable, but that's okay--the first runs are not always great when the shoes are being broken in. Even though it wasn't the best run, it was pretty great, because they were so soft and supportive. I'm pumped.
On other health notes, I'm tired of being a bad eater. I can't say that I was healthy when I started college, but I was a better eater. Fast forward 6 years (and 80 pounds!) and I'm a terrible eater. Well, I'm not as bad as I was before I started running, but I could be better. So, I'm going to try to focus on my eating, too. I am going to avoid fast food (because it really is the devil--a calorie-laden, fatty devil) and listening to my body in regard to why and what I'm eating. So, yeah! Hope it goes well!
The first thing that I'm trying to do is cut back on caffeine. I can't do it all at once and this is the right time to stop drinking coffee--it's not cold so I won't be missing out on its warming effect. I was doing pretty well for a while--I took three weeks off, but two weeks ago, I started drinking it again. On Sunday night I couldn't get to sleep until 3:15 AM. I don't know if that's because of the cup of coffee I had that morning, but it really made me recommit to not drinking it anymore (after drinking it yesterday to make it through the day on 3.5 hours of sleep!). After I get this down, I think fast food will be my next project. I think it will be hard because on the weekends when we're doing errands, it's easy to pick something up, especially if Kalem plans to get something himself. So, it's an ongoing process, but I'm excited about it!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
The Street Running Experiment
If you don't live in this area, I know that you won't know the streets I mentioned. Still I wanted to make it a part of my tale!
Well. On Sunday, I decided to do a street around my neighborhood and the surrounding area. I had an eight-mile run scheduled (a feat since I can't seem to get past 4 flipping miles at a time) and I knew that I'd lose my mind running around a track 8 times. I woke up early (8:00AM on a freaking Sunday!) and thought about running at that time, but Kalem and I went to brunch instead. And of course we did--what sane woman picks a 8-mile run over pancakes?! It was a really nice, cool morning and I know should have run then. But that's water under the bridge.
The day hit 80 degrees. My first mistake was running in 80-degree weather. My second mistake was only waiting 1.5 hours to run after I ate lunch. Anyhoo. I started out and did okay for the first mile or so (from Negley/Hampton to Highland/Hampton to Highland/Penn). I thought, this is going to be great! I'm such a runner! Okay. I got accosted by a creepy dude during one long stretch of sidewalk. He ran next to me talking about how good I looked, etc., and singing some song I didn't catch the words to. I could have easily taken this man if he tried anything (on account on my being bigger than him as well as full of terror), but still, I was freaked out. After a while he gave up. I had started running pretty quickly to get away from him and by the time I was away from him, I was completely worn out and sweating like crazy. I walked a little bit longer than usual to catch my breath. We'll call my third mistake running faster than my normal, snail-like pace.
By this time my right calf was screaming. This shouldn't be a surprise--I have known for at least a month that I need new shoes. I bought my beloved running shoes during my first (failed) attempt at becoming a runner, back in 2004. I know that one should replace shoes around every 500 miles and even though I have failed at being a runner a few times, during those attempts, in addition to using them as workout shoes at the gym, I'm sure that I've surpassed that limit. I shouldn't have even gone past that amount because, as a large runner, I wear out shoes a lot faster than smaller runners. So, these shoes are done. So, my fourth mistake was running in worn-out, though beloved, running shoes.
So, I ran up a slow incline up Penn (this was not a mistake, but I absolutely detest hills) and tried to keep my mind focused on what I was doing and seeing and hearing rather than the miles ahead. I finally got up the incline and made a turn down Fifth St. Now came the biggest mistake of all (excluding the running in extremely bad shoes). I sat down. I was worn out and sat on a bus stop bench. Okay, that's a lie. I laid down on the bench. I caught my breath and allowed myself to let my heartbeat come to a regular rate. It felt great. After a while, I reminded myself that I didn't have my bus pass so I couldn't wait until a bus came by to get home. So I got up and started shuffling along. One good thing about stopping was that it finally felt that there was a breeze (just air drying my sweat, but it felt great!). I got tired again and bent over under the shade, trying to catch my breath.
Then I made my sixth mistake. I texted Kalem that I needed him to tell me I could do this. Kalem was in the Oakland area playing a video game with Raji. On his way home he called me and, being the kind, supportive, loving, enabling husband that he is, he offered to pick me up. I could have kissed his feet. I was so thrilled. And so tired. So, I walked toward where he was coming from and let him take me home. I stopped at Fifth and Negley, I was so tired and humiliated, but I sure couldn't wait to get home and elevate my throbbing calf muscles and eat some cheese and pretzels. And that's just what I did.
I was so sure that I had run at least four miles. I just knew it. Sadly, though, it ended up being just three miles. I was so sad. How could the most exhausting run of my life only be three miles?! Still, I'm proud of myself for still running even after making so many mistakes. From now on, I plan on sticking to a safe park, running when it's cool, and getting some sassy NEW running shoes.
My calves still hurt, but they're getting better. I also made the mistake (#300?) of wearing heels to work yesterday. Not so smart of me. I am buying new shoes this weekend for sure because my calves can't take this anymore.
If I have to walk this dang marathon, I'm still doing it. I plan to keep running as much as I can. After all, my goal is to finish and not to finish within a certain amount of time. I'm still intent on doing this. Just at a bit of a slower pace!
Well. On Sunday, I decided to do a street around my neighborhood and the surrounding area. I had an eight-mile run scheduled (a feat since I can't seem to get past 4 flipping miles at a time) and I knew that I'd lose my mind running around a track 8 times. I woke up early (8:00AM on a freaking Sunday!) and thought about running at that time, but Kalem and I went to brunch instead. And of course we did--what sane woman picks a 8-mile run over pancakes?! It was a really nice, cool morning and I know should have run then. But that's water under the bridge.
The day hit 80 degrees. My first mistake was running in 80-degree weather. My second mistake was only waiting 1.5 hours to run after I ate lunch. Anyhoo. I started out and did okay for the first mile or so (from Negley/Hampton to Highland/Hampton to Highland/Penn). I thought, this is going to be great! I'm such a runner! Okay. I got accosted by a creepy dude during one long stretch of sidewalk. He ran next to me talking about how good I looked, etc., and singing some song I didn't catch the words to. I could have easily taken this man if he tried anything (on account on my being bigger than him as well as full of terror), but still, I was freaked out. After a while he gave up. I had started running pretty quickly to get away from him and by the time I was away from him, I was completely worn out and sweating like crazy. I walked a little bit longer than usual to catch my breath. We'll call my third mistake running faster than my normal, snail-like pace.
By this time my right calf was screaming. This shouldn't be a surprise--I have known for at least a month that I need new shoes. I bought my beloved running shoes during my first (failed) attempt at becoming a runner, back in 2004. I know that one should replace shoes around every 500 miles and even though I have failed at being a runner a few times, during those attempts, in addition to using them as workout shoes at the gym, I'm sure that I've surpassed that limit. I shouldn't have even gone past that amount because, as a large runner, I wear out shoes a lot faster than smaller runners. So, these shoes are done. So, my fourth mistake was running in worn-out, though beloved, running shoes.
So, I ran up a slow incline up Penn (this was not a mistake, but I absolutely detest hills) and tried to keep my mind focused on what I was doing and seeing and hearing rather than the miles ahead. I finally got up the incline and made a turn down Fifth St. Now came the biggest mistake of all (excluding the running in extremely bad shoes). I sat down. I was worn out and sat on a bus stop bench. Okay, that's a lie. I laid down on the bench. I caught my breath and allowed myself to let my heartbeat come to a regular rate. It felt great. After a while, I reminded myself that I didn't have my bus pass so I couldn't wait until a bus came by to get home. So I got up and started shuffling along. One good thing about stopping was that it finally felt that there was a breeze (just air drying my sweat, but it felt great!). I got tired again and bent over under the shade, trying to catch my breath.
Then I made my sixth mistake. I texted Kalem that I needed him to tell me I could do this. Kalem was in the Oakland area playing a video game with Raji. On his way home he called me and, being the kind, supportive, loving, enabling husband that he is, he offered to pick me up. I could have kissed his feet. I was so thrilled. And so tired. So, I walked toward where he was coming from and let him take me home. I stopped at Fifth and Negley, I was so tired and humiliated, but I sure couldn't wait to get home and elevate my throbbing calf muscles and eat some cheese and pretzels. And that's just what I did.
I was so sure that I had run at least four miles. I just knew it. Sadly, though, it ended up being just three miles. I was so sad. How could the most exhausting run of my life only be three miles?! Still, I'm proud of myself for still running even after making so many mistakes. From now on, I plan on sticking to a safe park, running when it's cool, and getting some sassy NEW running shoes.
My calves still hurt, but they're getting better. I also made the mistake (#300?) of wearing heels to work yesterday. Not so smart of me. I am buying new shoes this weekend for sure because my calves can't take this anymore.
If I have to walk this dang marathon, I'm still doing it. I plan to keep running as much as I can. After all, my goal is to finish and not to finish within a certain amount of time. I'm still intent on doing this. Just at a bit of a slower pace!
Monday, August 11, 2008
Running Cold
I have only run twice since I last wrote. This may sound okay to some, but I was scheduled to run at least three more times than that. Bah.
Anyhoo, the first run was really good. I finally got out of my 3-mile rut and it was a pretty comfortable run. Yesterday's run, however, was a nightmare. On Saturday, Kalem treated me to a fantastic day at the spa. I had a massage for the first time in my life as well as a mani/pedi. I don't know if it contributed (the masseuse told me to drink a lot of water because I could dehydrate) to it, but by the end of the night, I was feeling pretty tired and out of it. I think it's something of a cold. I got up to run (after 12.5 hours of sleep!) and my head was swimming. My chest was a little congested so I had a lot of trouble breathing deeply. So, instead of six miles, I ran three. Bah!
I think I need a change of perspective. Running hasn't been fun for me lately. It was a joy when I first started, when it was just about running. Now that mileage has become the focus, though, I'm easily frustrated and feel let down. I feel I need to change back to running for running's sake. But, I don't know what that would mean in regard to the marathon. I'm just not sure. Surbhi has been running like a fiend and I am super proud of her! I don't want to let her down. Or myself--I never seem to meet fitness goals.
So...I'm not sure what that means about the upcoming marathon. I have some thinking to do. For now, though, I'm just going to run and focus on how fantastic it makes me feel!
Anyhoo, the first run was really good. I finally got out of my 3-mile rut and it was a pretty comfortable run. Yesterday's run, however, was a nightmare. On Saturday, Kalem treated me to a fantastic day at the spa. I had a massage for the first time in my life as well as a mani/pedi. I don't know if it contributed (the masseuse told me to drink a lot of water because I could dehydrate) to it, but by the end of the night, I was feeling pretty tired and out of it. I think it's something of a cold. I got up to run (after 12.5 hours of sleep!) and my head was swimming. My chest was a little congested so I had a lot of trouble breathing deeply. So, instead of six miles, I ran three. Bah!
I think I need a change of perspective. Running hasn't been fun for me lately. It was a joy when I first started, when it was just about running. Now that mileage has become the focus, though, I'm easily frustrated and feel let down. I feel I need to change back to running for running's sake. But, I don't know what that would mean in regard to the marathon. I'm just not sure. Surbhi has been running like a fiend and I am super proud of her! I don't want to let her down. Or myself--I never seem to meet fitness goals.
So...I'm not sure what that means about the upcoming marathon. I have some thinking to do. For now, though, I'm just going to run and focus on how fantastic it makes me feel!
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
ChiRunning
When I last wrote, I had decided to take a hiatus from running to improve my running. It sounds a little goofy, I know, but I felt like I needed a break from pounding my joints into the asphalt to learn more about how to run safely and without impact and as much effort (and therefore faster and longer). I planned to take some time to read "ChiRunning" (if you want more info, there's also a website: http://www.chirunning.com/).
I took about a week off to work on my technique. It's so funny that I had to not run in order to run better. I think it's a brilliant method and once I get it down really well, I think it will my runs will be worlds better.
On Sunday night, I spent a good part of it working on posture, etc. I didn't really get the leg part of the equation, but I tried to do as best I could. I still don't get how to work my legs!
I went for my first run yesterday morning. I didn't have any real goals except for trying to incorporate ChiRunning as much as I could during my scheduled three-mile run. I found it really frustrating--the first time I tried it I ran way too fast and had to stop really quickly because I was gasping for breath. The next time I tried it, I got the lean right, but my breathing was off and my legs hurt. A few times running later, I think I got the lean, my breathing was improving, but now my shins hurt! That has never happened during a run! (It's always my calves, but I've never had shin trouble). Gah.
So, I finished my run feeling annoyed and tired. I felt like I had only run 10 minutes of the whole session. When I looked down on my watch, though, my 3-mile run time had decreased by 3 minutes! Hot dog! So, even though I don't think I could have had the very best run, I improved! I'm excited about really getting everything down and getting even better!
As I took a large amount of time away from my training, I'm not sure what this will mean for my marathon training. Right now, I feel like my training should focus more on form and technique than on increasing distance. For now, I think I'll keep my runs under 5 miles until I feel comfortable with how the runs are going. I'll keep you updated on how this progresses!
I took about a week off to work on my technique. It's so funny that I had to not run in order to run better. I think it's a brilliant method and once I get it down really well, I think it will my runs will be worlds better.
On Sunday night, I spent a good part of it working on posture, etc. I didn't really get the leg part of the equation, but I tried to do as best I could. I still don't get how to work my legs!
I went for my first run yesterday morning. I didn't have any real goals except for trying to incorporate ChiRunning as much as I could during my scheduled three-mile run. I found it really frustrating--the first time I tried it I ran way too fast and had to stop really quickly because I was gasping for breath. The next time I tried it, I got the lean right, but my breathing was off and my legs hurt. A few times running later, I think I got the lean, my breathing was improving, but now my shins hurt! That has never happened during a run! (It's always my calves, but I've never had shin trouble). Gah.
So, I finished my run feeling annoyed and tired. I felt like I had only run 10 minutes of the whole session. When I looked down on my watch, though, my 3-mile run time had decreased by 3 minutes! Hot dog! So, even though I don't think I could have had the very best run, I improved! I'm excited about really getting everything down and getting even better!
As I took a large amount of time away from my training, I'm not sure what this will mean for my marathon training. Right now, I feel like my training should focus more on form and technique than on increasing distance. For now, I think I'll keep my runs under 5 miles until I feel comfortable with how the runs are going. I'll keep you updated on how this progresses!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Ouch, etc.
Today was the first day that I said, "I might not be able to do this". I am frustrated by just how tired I am during runs lately. Today's run was brutal. I guess another lesson I learned from my fantastic run yesterday was "If one runs at top speed, she will not be able to run the next day." Ha! So, about 1.5 miles into my run, my body began a pretty speedy shut-down, beginning with my right calf and ending with my lower back. Gah.
I am seriously thinking I am taking this whole running thing too far. Maybe it was insanity for an obese woman to think she could start from the most activity typically performed in a week equalling opening the Oreo package and end up running an immense number of miles in the span of a year. Oy. But, I set this goal and, by gum, I will get there!
I am spending the weekend working on my technique. I think that my doing yoga has helped with my flexibility, but I'm hoping to get even better. I have heard about a method called ChiRunning (www.chirunning.com), and am really excited that it will help with my technique, amount of energy, and ability to increase my mileage. I have the book out from the library, wish me luck! If I don't find a new method soon, I won't make it much longer!
I am seriously thinking I am taking this whole running thing too far. Maybe it was insanity for an obese woman to think she could start from the most activity typically performed in a week equalling opening the Oreo package and end up running an immense number of miles in the span of a year. Oy. But, I set this goal and, by gum, I will get there!
I am spending the weekend working on my technique. I think that my doing yoga has helped with my flexibility, but I'm hoping to get even better. I have heard about a method called ChiRunning (www.chirunning.com), and am really excited that it will help with my technique, amount of energy, and ability to increase my mileage. I have the book out from the library, wish me luck! If I don't find a new method soon, I won't make it much longer!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Pace Yourself
Last night, I went running right after work. I hadn't planned on doing so, but a pretty wretched call at the hospital led to my work day lasting 10 hours instead of the normal 8. So, since I was too late to make it to class (not a bad thing at all!), I went home and relaxed for an hour before heading out for a 2-mile make up run (this was to finish the required miles for Saturday). Somehow I thought this would help me unwind after a long day--and it did! It was a wonderful night--a little bit warmer than I thought when I first left the house, but there was a breeze and an hour left until sunset.
The first thing I learned during my run was that I HAVE TO GET A NEW MP3 PLAYER! I recently broke mine--the result of dropping it 20,384,030 times during runs in the last 5 months, I think--and I borrowed Kalem's pristine player for this run. It always makes it go by so much faster! I know that as I increase my miles, it will be the most important equipment that I own. And also that as Kalem increases his, he will be less willing to lend his to me! So, that's definitely on the shopping list this weekend!
I started off at a leisurely pace, singing along with current "hits". Has anyone listened to music lately?! What is happening?! "F" this and sex with that and all that mess. What happened to good music? The first thing I will do with my future MP3 player is put my much-appreciated music on to it. The one good thing about most of the crap out right now is it's a good pace to run or walk to. Most of it's faster and if you can get past all of the filth they're "singing/rapping" about, it's worth working out to. Sometimes it's really hard to get a good heart rate listening to my India.Arie...she normally just makes me want to sit in child's pose or make a cup of tea and read for the night! I do have to say "I Kissed A Girl" is a freaking great end-of-the-run song. I was pretty beat, but it helped me push through it. I am not ashamed to say that my player will have a lot of Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake on it to get through those long runs!
I know what you're thinking--"why not listen to Kalem's tunes"? Because I can't listen to Nintendo game tracks. It's almost worse than running just with my thoughts--to me; I know Kalem loves them and I love him for it.
Anyhoo. As I said, I started off at a leisurely pace, singing along to the radio. To tell you how slowly I run, there was a very leisurely walker who was ahead of me for most of the run. Well, at one point I caught up to him (I couldn't pass, because my lungs were already threatening to explode) and he became very friendly. Apparently, all I need to increase my speed is a creepy man telling me I'm "doing just fine". I sped up out of hearing distance (like a quarter of a mile away, I certainly could have never lapped him or anything).
The great news is that I blew my pace out of the water. I ran 2 miles in 30:47, which is like 2.5 minutes off of my normal pace (I told you it was normally a slow, sauntering, snail-like pace). My right calf was screaming by the end of it, but after an hour of icing it afterward, I felt fantastic. I am super proud of the fact that I ran so much faster than normal. There is a chance that I will run the required marathon pace (16:02), provided that 1) a creepy, "friendly" guy keeps trying to make conversation and comments on my running "form", and 2) I have some rockin' tunes that can leave my wondering what music is coming to while keeping me at a respectable pace that ends the music torture relatively quickly.
I kissed a girl and I liked it. Hope my boyfriend don't mind it.
The first thing I learned during my run was that I HAVE TO GET A NEW MP3 PLAYER! I recently broke mine--the result of dropping it 20,384,030 times during runs in the last 5 months, I think--and I borrowed Kalem's pristine player for this run. It always makes it go by so much faster! I know that as I increase my miles, it will be the most important equipment that I own. And also that as Kalem increases his, he will be less willing to lend his to me! So, that's definitely on the shopping list this weekend!
I started off at a leisurely pace, singing along with current "hits". Has anyone listened to music lately?! What is happening?! "F" this and sex with that and all that mess. What happened to good music? The first thing I will do with my future MP3 player is put my much-appreciated music on to it. The one good thing about most of the crap out right now is it's a good pace to run or walk to. Most of it's faster and if you can get past all of the filth they're "singing/rapping" about, it's worth working out to. Sometimes it's really hard to get a good heart rate listening to my India.Arie...she normally just makes me want to sit in child's pose or make a cup of tea and read for the night! I do have to say "I Kissed A Girl" is a freaking great end-of-the-run song. I was pretty beat, but it helped me push through it. I am not ashamed to say that my player will have a lot of Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake on it to get through those long runs!
I know what you're thinking--"why not listen to Kalem's tunes"? Because I can't listen to Nintendo game tracks. It's almost worse than running just with my thoughts--to me; I know Kalem loves them and I love him for it.
Anyhoo. As I said, I started off at a leisurely pace, singing along to the radio. To tell you how slowly I run, there was a very leisurely walker who was ahead of me for most of the run. Well, at one point I caught up to him (I couldn't pass, because my lungs were already threatening to explode) and he became very friendly. Apparently, all I need to increase my speed is a creepy man telling me I'm "doing just fine". I sped up out of hearing distance (like a quarter of a mile away, I certainly could have never lapped him or anything).
The great news is that I blew my pace out of the water. I ran 2 miles in 30:47, which is like 2.5 minutes off of my normal pace (I told you it was normally a slow, sauntering, snail-like pace). My right calf was screaming by the end of it, but after an hour of icing it afterward, I felt fantastic. I am super proud of the fact that I ran so much faster than normal. There is a chance that I will run the required marathon pace (16:02), provided that 1) a creepy, "friendly" guy keeps trying to make conversation and comments on my running "form", and 2) I have some rockin' tunes that can leave my wondering what music is coming to while keeping me at a respectable pace that ends the music torture relatively quickly.
I kissed a girl and I liked it. Hope my boyfriend don't mind it.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Playing Catch Up
After ending our run early on Saturday, we took Sunday off as well to give Kalem a break and because he was still sore. He has no reason to feel embarrassed(!)--it could happen to anyone. I was glad that he stopped when he started to hurt and that his injury wasn't severe.
As a result, there is 6 miles to catch up on now, in addition to already-scheduled runs. I am trying to get them all done this and next week, but that would mean I would have to run 6 days in a row. Not so fun (or healthy) sounding. Kalem is much more pragmatic and has stretched them out more. I want to get back on track ASAP, so we'll see what happens in the next few days. With long runs coming up, I'd like to be caught up before I have to do my first five miles!
I have been sick to my stomach for the last few days. I have no one to blame but myself--I ate so much junk this weekend! I think that what really did me in was the CiCi's Pizza Saturday afternoon. We both felt awful after eating it. I took yesterday off from work because I was overwhelmingly nauseous. I feel better today, though still a little queasy.
Because of how I've been feeling, I have been doing a lot of thinking about what I put into my body. I eat way too much unhealthy, fatty foods, and my stomach is not too happy about it! I made a resolution to be more mindful about what I eat, including asking myself if I'm really, truly hungry. I think that this will help with my overeating as well. I am determined not to eat out as much as I used to as well. It just ends up making me feel bad.
That said, I feel more focused and ready to run, eat better, and take better care of my body. I have done yoga twice and I feel so great about it. I feel that it's really helping my IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome--gross, I know), too--even though I felt gross yesterday, after I did yoga, my stomach felt much calmer. My runs are much easier and more enjoyable when I've eaten well before, too. That's important for me to keep in mind if I complain about runs being hard!
It is important for me to remember that what I put in my body is just as important as what I do with it!
As a result, there is 6 miles to catch up on now, in addition to already-scheduled runs. I am trying to get them all done this and next week, but that would mean I would have to run 6 days in a row. Not so fun (or healthy) sounding. Kalem is much more pragmatic and has stretched them out more. I want to get back on track ASAP, so we'll see what happens in the next few days. With long runs coming up, I'd like to be caught up before I have to do my first five miles!
I have been sick to my stomach for the last few days. I have no one to blame but myself--I ate so much junk this weekend! I think that what really did me in was the CiCi's Pizza Saturday afternoon. We both felt awful after eating it. I took yesterday off from work because I was overwhelmingly nauseous. I feel better today, though still a little queasy.
Because of how I've been feeling, I have been doing a lot of thinking about what I put into my body. I eat way too much unhealthy, fatty foods, and my stomach is not too happy about it! I made a resolution to be more mindful about what I eat, including asking myself if I'm really, truly hungry. I think that this will help with my overeating as well. I am determined not to eat out as much as I used to as well. It just ends up making me feel bad.
That said, I feel more focused and ready to run, eat better, and take better care of my body. I have done yoga twice and I feel so great about it. I feel that it's really helping my IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome--gross, I know), too--even though I felt gross yesterday, after I did yoga, my stomach felt much calmer. My runs are much easier and more enjoyable when I've eaten well before, too. That's important for me to keep in mind if I complain about runs being hard!
It is important for me to remember that what I put in my body is just as important as what I do with it!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Falling Off the Wagon
Today’s running adventure began as any other; Chavonne and I debated on whether or not to run inside, we prepared our literature and music and got off to a steady start. Today, we switched machines and I ran on a more technologically advanced model that accurately keeps pace; apparently I could not handle this and fell almost immediately into our run. While reading, I dropped the book onto the treadmill and while tracking it, fell right down onto the machine. After pausing a moment to reflect and collect myself and with the help of Chavonne, I realighted the machine and tried my luck once more. However, immediately into the run portion (seventeen seconds to be exact), I fell again over my own feet and we decided to halt the run. I am so angry and embarrassed at myself for ruining our schedule and halting Chavonne’s progress. Hopefully, I can get back into form tomorrow.
Friday, July 11, 2008
On Addictions
Wednesday’s run was my first evening run and I have to say that I really loved it. The water was quiet and calm and there was a very slight breeze that kept me feeling cool and relaxed. We managed to forget our watches because we had originally planned to run on the treadmills, but they were occupied. So in lieu of running by the clock, we planned our run by landmarks and ran about a third of the mile-long track.
The first run was very difficult; my legs felt like lead and I struggled to get through it. However by the second run, I had a lot of my energy back and I was prepared to continue on. Although our run was cut short by darkness, I learned a lot about my running style in the process. I learned that the enormous amounts of salt I ingest through foods and condiments has really slowed my body down and that’s why I am planning to drastically reduce and then eliminate my soda consumption.
Doing so will allow me to reduce the amount of salt and fluid my body retains and save me around twenty dollars per month. However, going cold turkey as I have tried a few times before results in my getting dramatic headaches, I suppose due to caffeine addiction. So, I will have to play this just right, but the benefits are too great to ignore. Wish me luck.
The first run was very difficult; my legs felt like lead and I struggled to get through it. However by the second run, I had a lot of my energy back and I was prepared to continue on. Although our run was cut short by darkness, I learned a lot about my running style in the process. I learned that the enormous amounts of salt I ingest through foods and condiments has really slowed my body down and that’s why
Doing so will allow me to reduce the amount of salt and fluid my body retains and save me around twenty dollars per month. However, going cold turkey as I have tried a few times before results in my getting dramatic headaches, I suppose due to caffeine addiction. So, I will have to play this just right, but the benefits are too great to ignore. Wish me luck.
Running for Clarity
I started running around the beginning of February. I had been trying to lose weight since December with no success and then decided that running would increase my intensity and would help me lose inches and pounds.
Some things are going in my life that have me all kerfluffled. I feel like not much makes sense right now. I don't feel any peace at home, at work, in my marriage, within myself. I just feel crazy!
I LOVE running. Beginning to run was the best thing I ever did for my health and sanity. It brings me so peace and focus. It feels like the only source of solace right now and I am so grateful for the chance to lace up my shoes and take care of ME. It's the greatest gift right now.
Some things are going in my life that have me all kerfluffled. I feel like not much makes sense right now. I don't feel any peace at home, at work, in my marriage, within myself. I just feel crazy!
I LOVE running. Beginning to run was the best thing I ever did for my health and sanity. It brings me so peace and focus. It feels like the only source of solace right now and I am so grateful for the chance to lace up my shoes and take care of ME. It's the greatest gift right now.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Running on Empty
We did not want to run tonight! We were really tired and didn't want to put forth the energy to get a run in. It ended up being a really good run, though--it was cool and the sun was setting, so it was lovely weather to run in.
I have been feeling really tired lately and have had trouble sleeping. It's strange because last weekend, I was so exhausted that I could barely get out of bed and stay awake. Either way, my body is tired and my head is continuously hurting. I'm wondering if I'm going through caffeine withdrawal (I stopped drinking coffee in hopes that it would help me sleep). I hope I start feeling better soon!
I'm a little sore in my "haunches" (not my quads, not my hamstrings, like the "outer thigh"...I don't know). It hurts to get up from sitting after a while. All things considered, though, I feel good. I feel healthy and proud of the efforts I have made. I love running!
I have been feeling really tired lately and have had trouble sleeping. It's strange because last weekend, I was so exhausted that I could barely get out of bed and stay awake. Either way, my body is tired and my head is continuously hurting. I'm wondering if I'm going through caffeine withdrawal (I stopped drinking coffee in hopes that it would help me sleep). I hope I start feeling better soon!
I'm a little sore in my "haunches" (not my quads, not my hamstrings, like the "outer thigh"...I don't know). It hurts to get up from sitting after a while. All things considered, though, I feel good. I feel healthy and proud of the efforts I have made. I love running!
Monday, July 7, 2008
Pushing It
Kalem and I took a run yesterday evening around 7 PM. It had been raining outside so we decided to run on the treadmills in the "exercise room" of the apartment complex. I am trying my best to avoid them because I'm afraid of falling again, but I hate getting wet and it was insanely humid, so we ended up inside.
When we first started running, each session focused on the amount of time run rather than the distance. However, now that we have started marathon training, miles are what matter--building upon them regardless of the intensity.
So, we got on the treadmills to start our run. I felt like I wasn't getting anywhere (I was impatient and wanted to be done!), so I increased my speed to "get it over with". Oy. My body started cramping like crazy and I almost had to stop. I decreased my speed, but it was too late. So, instead of running 4 miles, I only ended up running 3.
I was really frustrated with myself for not finishing, but I am glad that I learned a valuable lesson: I have found a pretty comfortable running pace though it is fairly slow. I need to be comfortable with taking forever to run three miles because if I push myself too hard, I'll never make it any further in my training.
I am ready to take on our next run at my snail's pace! Finishing is what's most important. That and being able to still feel my legs!
When we first started running, each session focused on the amount of time run rather than the distance. However, now that we have started marathon training, miles are what matter--building upon them regardless of the intensity.
So, we got on the treadmills to start our run. I felt like I wasn't getting anywhere (I was impatient and wanted to be done!), so I increased my speed to "get it over with". Oy. My body started cramping like crazy and I almost had to stop. I decreased my speed, but it was too late. So, instead of running 4 miles, I only ended up running 3.
I was really frustrated with myself for not finishing, but I am glad that I learned a valuable lesson: I have found a pretty comfortable running pace though it is fairly slow. I need to be comfortable with taking forever to run three miles because if I push myself too hard, I'll never make it any further in my training.
I am ready to take on our next run at my snail's pace! Finishing is what's most important. That and being able to still feel my legs!
Sunday, July 6, 2008
The Beginning
I am so excited that Kalem and I have started this blog. We have decided to run as a way of getting healthier. (I think that Kalem is thinking of looking into other forms of exercise, too, so that may be discussed later on). Our main reasons are to lose weight and to get healthy. We want to have the happiest, healthiest, longest marriage that we can. In addition, we want to be healthy in and when we decide to have children. WE ARE NOT PREGNANT (I realized Kalem's entry may have given that idea)! We want to have a healthy pregnancy and raise healthy children.
Our first marathon will be the Richmond Marathon on November 15th. I am really excited and nervous about it. I think it will be a great goal to have as we get in shape. We also are tentatively planning to run the Pittsburgh Marathon May 3rd. This depends on how we feel after our first--if we aren't too broken after this one (!), it may become an annual thing.
Well, Friday's run was certainly a kick in the butt. In case you didn't know, I had taken a three week off to nurse a painful groin pull. I was really ready to get back in the swing of things--before my injury, running had become an important, almost integral, part of my life. I missed having the outlet for stress and way of centering in a fairly busy life.
So. It was a difficult run, but I am so glad we did it! It was wonderful to watch Kalem run--he was always ahead of me. He has such beautiful form. At one point I got teary, because I know how hard he was working and that his main goal is to be healthy enough to play with the kids we are seriously discussing having in the next few days. I am so proud of him. When I saw him sprinting the last of his run, I thought I would burst with pride.
As for me, I too, like Kalem, had a heck of a time on the second-to-last lap. My leg was bothering me a bit after, but I feel fine now. I ran at a snail's pace, but I did it! I think that, with time and more muscle, I will be able to increase my pace to the necessary 16:02. I look forward to increasing my mileage and rediscovering the peace I used to feel while running. We have what feels like a kabillion miles to run during training for this marathon and, though I may complain a few (ha!) times, I can't wait for each and every one of them.
Our first marathon will be the Richmond Marathon on November 15th. I am really excited and nervous about it. I think it will be a great goal to have as we get in shape. We also are tentatively planning to run the Pittsburgh Marathon May 3rd. This depends on how we feel after our first--if we aren't too broken after this one (!), it may become an annual thing.
Well, Friday's run was certainly a kick in the butt. In case you didn't know, I had taken a three week off to nurse a painful groin pull. I was really ready to get back in the swing of things--before my injury, running had become an important, almost integral, part of my life. I missed having the outlet for stress and way of centering in a fairly busy life.
So. It was a difficult run, but I am so glad we did it! It was wonderful to watch Kalem run--he was always ahead of me. He has such beautiful form. At one point I got teary, because I know how hard he was working and that his main goal is to be healthy enough to play with the kids we are seriously discussing having in the next few days. I am so proud of him. When I saw him sprinting the last of his run, I thought I would burst with pride.
As for me, I too, like Kalem, had a heck of a time on the second-to-last lap. My leg was bothering me a bit after, but I feel fine now. I ran at a snail's pace, but I did it! I think that, with time and more muscle, I will be able to increase my pace to the necessary 16:02. I look forward to increasing my mileage and rediscovering the peace I used to feel while running. We have what feels like a kabillion miles to run during training for this marathon and, though I may complain a few (ha!) times, I can't wait for each and every one of them.
On the First Time
On Friday, Chavonne and I had our first re-committed run as a marathoning couple and I have to say, it really was a challenge and a gift. We walked and ran a split of five minutes each, and the pace we were able to keep was pretty impressive over our three miles. The runs remained difficult and my feet in particular continued to hurt as I was breaking in a new pair of running shoes with insoles. At one point, I was passed by a blonde woman whose pace inspired me to do my best to keep up and I managed to run about a third of a mile over the five minutes; that may not sound like much but it is a fairly major achievement for someone with as sedentary a history as I have. The second-to-last run was by far the most challenging; my stomach began to cramp, by calves and hamstrings began to burn, and my mouth began to choke with bile. I was fairly positive I would throw up into the city reservoir, which would have been an ecological disaster to say the least.
However, the walk restored my strength and my breath and I even found the energy and drive to sprint the last fifty yards to the finish so I could make a time under fifty minutes for a pace of sixteen minutes and forty seconds. I could not believe I had it in me to sprint as fast as I did which, again, is not objectively fast, but an achievement nonetheless.
The best part (other than finishing and sitting in our air-conditioned car) was seeing the look of happiness on Chavonne’s face as we both pressed and encouraged each other to run harder. It really drove home the point of why we are running in the first place for me, which is to extend our lives with each other by getting healthier. I want to be able to play with our future son (named "Noah," we believe) without getting short of breath; I want to live to see him grow up; and I want to live to protect and love my wife as long as I possibly can. Maybe marathoning is only a step on the road to better health and better lives for both of us.
However, the walk restored my strength and my breath and I even found the energy and drive to sprint the last fifty yards to the finish so I could make a time under fifty minutes for a pace of sixteen minutes and forty seconds. I could not believe I had it in me to sprint as fast as I did which, again, is not objectively fast, but an achievement nonetheless.
The best part (other than finishing and sitting in our air-conditioned car) was seeing the look of happiness on Chavonne’s face as we both pressed and encouraged each other to run harder. It really drove home the point of why we are running in the first place for me, which is to extend our lives with each other by getting healthier. I want to be able to play with our future son (named "Noah," we believe) without getting short of breath; I want to live to see him grow up; and I want to live to protect and love my wife as long as I possibly can. Maybe marathoning is only a step on the road to better health and better lives for both of us.
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